Maryland Park Service

Alcohol Policy

The Maryland Park Service provides outdoor recreational experiences for millions of visitors each

year. Our State Parks feature recreational amenities, as well as campsites, full-service cabins, and

picnic shelters, where families can enjoy nature-based activities that are close enough to home for

everyone to enjoy.

To maintain and ensure a safe, family-oriented outdoor recreation experience for all park visitors, the

Maryland Park Service regulates the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages in State

Parks. This policy was adopted in the interest of all park patrons, to maintain the family atmosphere

in any non-designated area is prohibited.

• The interior of full-service cabins are exempt.

• Per State law, the interior of motor homes are exempt.

• Alcoholic beverages will be allowed at designated picnic shelters through the purchase of

an Alcohol Permit available via the standard shelter reservation process. A $35 fee will be

charged for each Alcohol Permit.

• Permits may be issued, upon request, by the Park Manager, for special events operating

under a formal Use Agreement.

• An Alcohol Permit may be revoked for cause by the Park Manager, their designee, or a

Natural Resources Police Officer.

are commonly located in campgrounds, or within close proximity, and therefore present a

potential conflict with the family atmosphere of the park campground if visitors are

consuming alcoholic beverages.

Will I be cited for having unopened containers of alcoholic beverages in my vehicle?

• No, park patrons may transport unopened alcoholic beverages in their vehicles to access

areas where alcohol is allowed. Alcoholic beverages, whether opened or unopened, may

not be otherwise possessed while in a State Park.

Why has the Maryland Park Service adopted its alcohol policy?

The Maryland Park Service has adopted its alcohol policy to ensure a high quality, safe experience

Who can request an Alcohol Permit and how can I obtain one?

• Alcohol Permits are issued for a $35 fee, through the standard reservation process for a

designated shelter.

• Alcohol Permits may be issued, upon request, by the Park Manager for special events

• A $35 fee will be charged for each Alcohol Permit. The Permit may be revoked for cause by

the Park Manager, their designee or a Natural Resources Police Officer. All revenue from the

sale of the Permits will be used to support State Park operations and improvements.

Do other state and county park systems ban alcohol consumption?

Delaware, Florida, New Hampshire, South Carolina, West Virginia.

Is there a fine if I am cited for violating the alcohol policy?

• Yes, and violators may be issued a Natural Resources Citation, with a pre-payable fine of

$55 and a possible maximum penalty of $500 for a first offense.